ARLINGTON Tae Kwon Do instructor D. Ross Mulrine III was introduced to martial arts in an easygoing but disciplined atmosphere, and hes strived to emulate that style in his own teaching ever since.
Mulrine has taught martial arts for five of the seven years hes been practicing them, and he opened the Arlington branch of the Bellingham-based U.S. Tae Kwon Do Academy in March. As the school year comes to a close, hes starting a summer membership special.
Were offering two weeks for $20, uniform included, Mulrine said. Theres something for everyone here, from 4-year-olds to people in their 60s. Ive worked with 66-year-old instructors and 7-year-old black belts. If they try out this trial, they can find out what theyre looking for. Just about anyone can find something that they like about it.
For Mulrine, Tae Kwon Do combines the benefits of health and education, since the exercise builds muscles and teaches self-defense, but he believes the focus on mental development can also promote a more well-rounded lifestyle, especially among younger students.
We have three categories, Mulrine said. Little Tigers from ages 4-6, children from ages 7-12, and adults from ages 13 and up. With Little Tigers and children, we focus on character development, by encouraging good habits such as reading and promoting responsibility in the home by doing chores. The students earn stripes by achieving these scholastic and behavioral goals, which parents love because it requires their children to listen, help out and follow directions.
Mulrine acknowledged that the courses for adult students focus more on disciplining their bodies, increasing their flexibility and stamina while teaching them about personal safety.
Monthly tuition fees run $75 for Little Tigers, $70 for children and $65 for adults. The Arlington branch of the U.S. Tae Kwon Do Academy is located at 20404 67th Ave. NE, and may be contacted by phone at 360-435-2228.